A Tribute to Prof. Davy Kiprotich Koech: A Visionary Pioneer of Kenya’s Medical Research.

The curtains have fallen on one of Kenya’s most distinguished scientists and a founding member of the Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI): Prof. Davy Kiprotich Koech. For Kenyans born during the last century, the mention of the word KEMRI immediately triggers the name Davy Koech. Davy ( fondly referred to as DK by KEMRI staff) was synonymous with the Kenya Medical Research Institute. Perhaps, maybe due to fate, his acronym DK ( Davy Koech) was indistinguishable from DK (Director, KEMRI). And he played the role to the hilt-building KEMRI from scratch to today one of the most prestigious and undeniably Africa’s impactful medical research institution globally.

Born in 1951, Prof. Koech, was not only a visionary but also a guide and inspirational leader. He dedicated the best years of his life to the institute, leaving an indelible mark on its history and on Kenya’s scientific research landscape.

Prof. Koech’s remarkable journey with KEMRI began on 1st March 1973, when the Ministry of Health tasked him with assisting Prof. Mutuma Mugambi in establishing the Clinical Research Centre (CRC)—the precursor to what would become KEMRI. The CRC was established as KEMRI’s founding center, with Prof. Mugambi and Dr. Koech as key founding scientists. Over the years, KEMRI grew under their stewardship, and by 5th November, when the Institute formally commenced operations, Dr. James Gikonyo was appointed as the first Director of KEMRI. Dr. Koech, with his unparalleled leadership, eventually ascended to become the Director of the CRC and in 1989, he succeeded Prof. Mugambi as the Director of KEMRI, a position he held until 2007.

Throughout his career, Prof. Koech held numerous distinguished roles, including that of Chief Research Officer, Director, and Chief Executive of KEMRI, where he spearheaded groundbreaking health sciences research in Kenya.

Prof. Koech’s influence extended far beyond his role at KEMRI. He was part of the pioneering group of scientists who, in 1979, helped establish the Institute and developed a prolific career in health sciences research. His research, which investigated various immunological and tropical diseases, led to over 260 published papers in peer-reviewed journals and conference presentations. Perhaps his most notable achievement was his contribution to the development of a novel drug formulation using low-dose interferon alpha in 1990, for the clinical management of HIV/AIDS and viral hepatitis. His pioneering work also facilitated the first living donor-related kidney transplant in Kenya in 1985, and he introduced DNA technology to further enhance this field.

In addition to his groundbreaking research, Prof. Koech served in critical roles, including as the Head of the Division of Vector-Borne Diseases at the Ministry of Health (1981-1984), the Director of Clinical Research Centre at KEMRI (1982-1984), and the Director of the Biomedical Sciences Research Centre at KEMRI (1984-1989). His service extended to various international bodies such as the World Health Organization (WHO), the Commission of European Communities, and the United Nations International Atomic Energy Agency.

Prof. Koech will be remembered as an exceptional academic mentor, having supervised and examined numerous postgraduate students both locally and internationally. His contributions to science, education, and public health will resonate for generations, and his passing marks the end of an era for KEMRI and Kenya’s scientific community. The life and work of Prof. Davy Koech stand as a testament to the power of dedication, vision, and leadership. He has left a lasting legacy that continues to inspire future generations of scholars, researchers, and leaders. Rest in peace, Prof. Davy Kiprotich Koech, a true giant of Kenya’s medical research.